Additional Coverage:
- Melinda Gates says she’s ‘thriving’ after Bill called their $76bn divorce a ‘regret’ (irishstar.com)
Philanthropist Melinda French Gates recently addressed her ex-husband Bill Gates’ public comments on their divorce, including his statement that the split was his biggest regret. In an interview, French Gates responded to questions about Gates’ remarks, saying, “Look, divorces are painful, and it’s not something I would wish on any family.”
Although admitting the divorce was difficult, she expressed no regrets about her 27-year marriage to the Microsoft co-founder. “Despite the fact that the divorce wasn’t great, having those three kids, the work we were able to do together — even if I knew that it wouldn’t last forever, I would still do it again,” she stated, adding that she is “thriving” after the divorce.
French Gates is now focused on her philanthropic work and spending time with friends. She is also preparing to release a book, “The Next Day,” a blend of autobiography and self-help, offering insights into the challenging transitions in her life. She revealed she began writing the book while still navigating these changes.
Earlier this year, Bill Gates acknowledged his divorce as his most significant mistake. While the couple remains close for the sake of their children and grandchildren, Gates did not elaborate on the reasons for their separation, though he previously admitted to an affair with an employee in 2021. Despite having worked alongside her ex-husband to build the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, French Gates announced her departure from the organization last year, emphasizing the importance of a woman having “her full voice, her full decision-making authority.”